Mini Apple Pies Recipe
Mini Apple Pies are the perfect blend of homey comfort and pint-sized charm. Imagine biting into a tender, golden crust loaded with cinnamon-kissed apples that are just the right amount of sweet and tart—these irresistible treats deliver all the enchantment of classic apple pie, but in an adorable, hand-held form. Whether you’re planning a cozy fall gathering, searching for an easy weeknight dessert, or simply want to put big smiles on the faces around your table, these Mini Apple Pies guarantee pure dessert joy, one delightful bite at a time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for these Mini Apple Pies is refreshingly simple, but every item brings an essential touch—think buttery crust, the warm embrace of spices, and apples that bake up beautifully soft and aromatic. Let’s break down how each ingredient works its delicious magic in this recipe.
- Refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade): These form the flaky base and lid that cradle each apple-filled bite; opt for your favorite brand, or make your own for extra bragging rights!
- Apples (3 medium, peeled, cored, and finely diced): Go for Granny Smith apples for their tartness, or use a mix for a more complex flavor.
- Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Melts into the filling, adding richness and that classic, comforting aroma.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens the apples and helps create that beautiful syrupy texture.
- Brown sugar (2 tbsp): Adds a deeper, caramel-like sweetness that amplifies the apple flavor.
- Cinnamon (1 tsp): The essential spice for warmth and that signature apple pie taste!
- Nutmeg (1/4 tsp): Just a touch brings incredible depth and a hint of nostalgia.
- Lemon juice (1 tsp): Brightens up the filling and keeps those apples tasting fresh.
- All-purpose flour (1 tbsp): Thickens the filling, so you don’t end up with runny pies.
- Egg, beaten (for egg wash): Brushed on top for that bakery-worthy shine and rich color.
- Coarse sugar (optional): A final sprinkle adds crunch and sparkle to the finished pies.
How to Make Mini Apple Pies
Step 1: Prepare Your Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and giving your muffin tin a light greasing. Roll out your pie crusts on a lightly floured surface and cut out circles big enough to tuck into each muffin cup. Gently press the dough into each cup, forming a tiny nest that will soon cradle sweet, spiced apples. Reserve any excess dough for making adorable lattice tops if you like—a classic touch that really elevates the look!
Step 2: Cook the Apple Filling
In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s just bubbling. Toss in your diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour. Stir everything together and let it cook for 5–6 minutes, or until the apples become wonderfully tender and the mixture thickens into a gorgeous, sticky filling. This step is when your kitchen really starts to smell like pure fall bliss!
Step 3: Assemble the Mini Apple Pies
Spoon that luscious apple filling evenly into each prepared crust, making sure each mini pie gets plenty of fruit. If you’re adding lattice tops, cut out thin strips from your remaining dough and weave them over the filling—not essential, but oh-so-cute! No worries if you’re not up for the extra step, either—a simple crust works beautifully too.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Sugar Sprinkle
Brush the tops of your pies (and any lattices) with more beaten egg. This is the secret to achieving that jaw-dropping glossy finish. Sprinkle a touch of coarse sugar over the top if you like a sweet sparkle and a little crunch.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide your muffin tin into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown crust and bubbling filling—trust me, you’ll know it when you see (and smell) it! Allow the Mini Apple Pies to cool for at least 10 minutes before you gently remove them from the tin. Patience really pays off here as the filling will set and the crust firms up, allowing you to enjoy neat, portable pies.
How to Serve Mini Apple Pies
Garnishes
A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream takes these Mini Apple Pies from delicious to downright swoon-worthy. If you’re feeling festive, try a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top—your guests will go wild for that extra flourish!
Side Dishes
While these pies shine solo, they pair beautifully with savory snacks or light salads at brunch, or stand out as the grand finale to your family dinner. Set them alongside a mug of hot apple cider or a glass of cold milk for the ultimate fall treat experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Showcase your Mini Apple Pies on a rustic wooden board for a farmhouse feel, or stack them up on a tiered dessert stand for an elegant touch at a party. For extra flair, wrap each one in parchment and tie with a string for hand-held picnic delights or sweet party favors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, place your Mini Apple Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days. This keeps the crust nice and fresh, and the filling perfectly tasty.
Freezing
To freeze, let the pies cool completely, then arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store for up to 2 months. When the apple pie cravings hit, you’ll be thrilled to pull a batch out of the freezer!
Reheating
For that “just-baked” experience, reheat leftover Mini Apple Pies in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes until warmed through and the crust crisps back up. The microwave works in a pinch, but the oven is best for keeping those edges flaky.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are fantastic for their tartness and firmness, feel free to experiment with Honeycrisp, Fuji, or even a mix of varieties for a more complex flavor profile.
Do I have to make a lattice top, or can I use a solid crust?
You can absolutely skip the lattice! A solid top crust works just as well—just remember to cut a few small slits for steam to escape, ensuring your pies bake up perfectly.
Can I make Mini Apple Pies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep them in advance! Assemble the unbaked pies, cover tightly, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. That way, dessert is ready when you are.
What’s the best way to prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Allowing your apple filling to cool to just warm and thickening it with flour helps keep excess moisture at bay. Also, avoid overfilling, and try to use a slotted spoon when transferring filling to the crusts.
Can I use store-bought dough?
Definitely! Store-bought refrigerated pie crusts are a huge time-saver and work beautifully in this recipe. No one will guess you took a shortcut!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried making Mini Apple Pies before, now’s your moment—these little gems are friendly, fun to share, and bursting with nostalgic apple pie flavor in every tender bite. Whether for a party, a holiday, or just a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, there’s always a reason to bake up a batch and make someone’s day a whole lot cozier!
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Mini Apple Pies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini pies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These mini apple pies are the perfect bite-sized dessert for any occasion. Filled with a delicious spiced apple filling and encased in a flaky crust, they are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients
Pie Crusts:
- 2 refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade)
Apple Filling:
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely diced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
Others:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare muffin tin: Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a muffin tin.
- Prepare crusts: Roll out pie crusts and cut circles to fit muffin cups.
- Make apple filling: Melt butter in a skillet, add apples, sugars, spices, lemon juice, and flour. Cook until thickened.
- Fill crusts: Spoon apple filling into crusts. Add lattice tops if desired.
- Bake: Brush tops with egg wash, sprinkle with sugar, and bake until golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Let cool before serving with whipped cream or ice cream.
Notes
- These mini pies can be served warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Granny Smith apples work best for tartness, but you can use a mix for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pie
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 110 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
